At WWDC 2024 in Cupertino, Apple unveiled the latest update to its Vision Pro operating system, VisionOS 2. This update introduces a range of productivity enhancements and immersive experiences designed to elevate the capabilities of the Vision Pro headset.
Apple’s visionOS 2 promises to redefine how users interact with digital content through advanced AI and machine learning technologies.
Enhanced Photos App
One of the standout features of visionOS 2 is the ability to “spatialize” photos. Using AI and machine learning, this feature transforms regular 2D photos into interactive 3D experiences.
This new capability allows users to relive their memories in a more immersive and lifelike manner, making the photo-viewing experience more engaging and dynamic.
Intuitive Navigation and Controls
visionOS 2 introduces new navigation options to enhance user interaction. Users can now switch to the home screen with a simple tap and access the control center by flipping their hands over.
The control center provides quick access to notifications, shortcuts, and other essential functions, streamlining the user experience and making it more intuitive.
Improved Travel Mode
The travel mode feature on the Vision Pro has been expanded to include train support in addition to the existing airplane mode. This enhancement ensures that users can maintain an immersive virtual experience while traveling, whether by air or rail.
This update is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers who rely on the Vision Pro for entertainment or productivity on the go.
Higher-Resolution Virtual Displays
Later this year, visionOS 2 will deliver higher display resolutions and sizes for the Mac virtual display capability. Users will be able to enjoy the equivalent of two 4K monitors side by side, providing an expansive and immersive desktop view.
Additionally, the update will include support for mice pairing, enhancing the functionality of the Vision Pro for professional use.
Developer-Friendly Features
Apple is making it easier for developers to create apps for the Vision Pro with visionOS 2. The update includes new volumetric APIs that allow for the simultaneous use of two apps, a new dev kit called TabletopKit for developing games on flat surfaces, and new enterprise APIs.
These tools are designed to foster innovation and expand the ecosystem of apps available for the Vision Pro.
Apple Immersive Video
In related news, Apple announced Apple Immersive Video, a 180-degree 8K video format specifically for the Vision Pro.
This format is set to revolutionize video content by providing a highly immersive viewing experience. Apple has partnered with content creators like Red Bull to produce a sports series and it is also working on a new scripted feature.
Additionally, collaborations with hardware manufacturers like Canon and BlackMagic are in progress to enhance the creation and capture of immersive programming.
Global Expansion of Vision Pro
The Vision Pro is set to expand its availability beyond the United States. Starting June 28, the headset will be available in China, Japan, and Singapore.
Following this, customers in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom will be able to purchase the Vision Pro from July 12. This global rollout will allow more users to experience the innovative features and capabilities of visionOS 2.
visionOS 2: A Comprehensive Update
visionOS 2 will be available as a free update to all Vision Pro users in late 2024. This comprehensive update not only enhances existing features but also introduces new ones that leverage advanced technologies to provide a richer, more immersive user experience.
Apple’s commitment to innovation is evident in the continuous improvement of its products, ensuring that users have access to the latest and most advanced tools. Apple’s unveiling of visionOS 2 at WWDC 2024 marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Vision Pro.
With enhanced photo spatialization, intuitive navigation, improved travel mode, higher-resolution virtual displays, and new developer tools, visionOS 2 promises to deliver a more immersive and productive experience.
As the Vision Pro expands to new markets, more users will have the opportunity to experience the groundbreaking features of visionOS 2, solidifying Apple’s position as a leader in the virtual and augmented reality space.
The information is taken from CNBC and Mashable
